Inspirational stories of exemplary people.
"Since it is so likely that (children) will meet cruel enemies, let them at least have heard of brave knights and heroic courage. Otherwise you are making their destiny not brighter but darker.” --- C. S. Lewis

May 17, 2011

Molly the Miracle Horse

My Sister-in-law Kathy sent me this story in an email that someone had forwarded to her.It’s such a fun story I wanted to share it with you.It’s about a horse named Molly.When Hurricane Katrina hit Louisiana, many people were forced to leave their homes.This young pony was left behind.After surviving on her own for several weeks, she was rescued by a group of people rescuing animals.She was placed in a shelter with many other animals who had also been rescued.

At the shelter, a pit bull attacked her and hurt her right leg badly.The wound became infected.Caretakers weren’t sure if she could be saved.But a sympathetic surgeon saw potential in her because Molly was patient, could handle pain and wanted to survive.He saved the pony by taking her lower leg.A prosthesis was made for her, so she can move about normally again.

Her vet said, “She asks for [her prosthesis.] She will put her little limb out and come to you and let you know that she wants you to put it on. Sometimes she wants you to take it off too.”And sometimes, Molly gets away from the Vet.“It can be pretty bad when you can't catch a three-legged horse,” she laughs.

The bottom of her prosthesis is shaped like a happy face.Each footprint Molly makes in soft dirt stamps a happy face footprint.I think that’s really fun.

Now Molly visits nursing homes, rehabilitations centers, hospitals and shelters, giving people hope.She survived a hurricane and the after-effects, a horrible injury, surgery and now she’s helping others.She’s living proof that one can get through hard things and come out on top.

It’s pretty amazing to see a horse with a prosthetic leg!Molly must help people cope with their difficulties by showing that almost anything is possible.

This was originally published:Goodman, Brenda. "After Surviving Hurricane and Being Mauled by Dog, Pony is Still Standing." New York Times 15 May 2006.